Reproductive endocrinologists specialize in disorders of the reproductive system, including infertility, sexual dysfunction, hormonal imbalances during puberty, problems with the menstrual cycle and menopause. They can treat both men and women and may be involved in fertility treatment, hormone treatment for transgender and intersex individuals, and treating patients with hormonal imbalances related to the reproductive system. They work in hospitals or clinics and offer a variety of specialized services.
A reproductive endocrinologist is a doctor who specializes in disorders of the reproductive system, including infertility, sexual dysfunction, hormonal imbalances during puberty, problems with the menstrual cycle and menopause. These medical specialists usually obtain training in obstetrics and gynecology, followed by a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) fellowship, before taking exams for board certification. Although these doctors train in gynecology, a field focused on female medical conditions, reproductive endocrinologists can also treat men.
One of the most common jobs for a reproductive endocrinologist is in fertility treatment. When patients present their doctor with a fertility problem, they are referred to a reproductive endocrinologist who can perform tests to see if hormonal imbalances are responsible for infertility. He or she can prescribe medications to treat imbalances and increase fertility, helping patients conceive. When patients successfully conceive, the reproductive endocrinologist can be part of the medical team that monitors the pregnancy and supports patients.
Reproductive endocrinologists may also be involved in treating people going through puberty, or transgender and intersex individuals who seek assistance with hormone treatment as part of their treatment plan. Girls with heavy periods, men and women with sexual dysfunction, and adults with hormonal imbalances related to the reproductive system may also be treated by a reproductive endocrinologist. Available treatment options may include surgery, hormone replacement, and concurrent care with another professional, such as an oncologist who may treat reproductive cancer while the endocrinologist provides monitoring and treatment for abnormal hormone levels.
These doctors may work in a hospital or clinic, offering a variety of services to their patients. Many infertility clinics employ reproductive endocrinologists so that they are available as part of the patient care teams, and these medical specialists may also work independently. Work includes interpreting test results, performing physical exams, conducting patient interviews, and referring to other health professionals ranging from obstetricians to psychologists.
Patients with issues related to reproductive functions may find a visit to a reproductive endocrinologist informative and helpful. These medical professionals offer a variety of specialized services available in their area of medical training and also keep abreast of progress and developments in the field through conferences, journals and other continuing education opportunities. A good reproductive endocrinologist is always happy to tell patients where he trained, how long he has been practicing, and whether or not he holds certification from a professional organization of reproductive endocrinologists and/or fertility specialists.
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